Title:
Robert E. Lee ALS to Charles O’Conor, Jefferson Davis' Lawyer - Defended for Treason Charges After Civil War – PSA/DNA Certified Autograph Letter Signed (Lexington, VA, March 12, 1867; Cert. #85797279)
Description:
Autograph Letter Signed (ALS) by Robert E. Lee, dated “Lexington Va: 12 March 1867,” written entirely in his hand on period lined paper. The letter is neatly penned in iron gall ink and signed “R. E. Lee” at the conclusion.
The full transcription reads:
“My dear Sir
Your note of the 6th Inst: to the Rev. S. H. Moore has been forwarded to me by Gen’l Ruggles. I have informed the latter that in compliance with your wishes, his Son Mr. B. Ruggles will be admitted into Washington College whenever qualified to enter. I hope Mr. Ruggles will so appreciate your kindness, that by faithful application to his studies, he may obtain the full benefit of the opportunity you have given him for acquiring an education.
With great respect
Your obt Servt
R. E. Lee
Honble Chas. O’Conor”
The letter concerns the admission of a student to Washington College (now Washington and Lee University), reflecting Lee’s active administrative role as president. The handwriting is clear and legible throughout.
Encapsulated and authenticated by PSA/DNA, with the label reading:
“LETTER
ROBERT E. LEE
PSA/DNA CERTIFIED
AUTHENTIC AUTO”
Certification number: 85797279.
Condition appears very good, with light toning and expected age-related wear. The document remains well-preserved and highly legible within its protective PSA slab.
Historical Context:
This letter dates to Robert E. Lee’s post-Civil War presidency of Washington College in Lexington, Virginia, where he devoted himself to education and the rebuilding of Southern society following the Confederacy’s collapse. His correspondence often reflects a focus on student advancement, discipline, and opportunity, as seen in this recommendation and admission-related letter.
The recipient, Charles O’Conor (1804–1884), was one of the most prominent American attorneys of the 19th century. He later served on the legal team defending Jefferson Davis against treason charges after the Civil War and was nominated for President of the United States in 1872 by the Straight-Out Democratic Party.
The reference to “Gen’l Ruggles” is to Daniel Ruggles (1810–1897), a Confederate general who served in various commands during the Civil War, including at the Battle of Shiloh. After the war, Ruggles remained active in Southern civic and professional circles and, like Lee, was involved in educational and social rebuilding efforts. His role in forwarding the correspondence illustrates the interconnected network of former Confederate leaders and influential figures during Reconstruction.
Authentication & Encapsulation:
PSA/DNA authenticated and encapsulated autograph letter signed (Cert. #85797279), preserved in a secure archival holder with full certification labeling.
Closing Appeal:
This historically rich ALS from Robert E. Lee not only highlights his postwar dedication to education but also connects three significant 19th-century figures—Lee, Charles O’Conor, and General Daniel Ruggles. With strong content, full transcription, and PSA authentication, it represents an exceptional and desirable artifact for collectors of Civil War and Reconstruction-era history.
Shipping Notice:
For insurance purposes, items sold over $600 may require signature confirmation upon delivery. Higher-value items, likely over $1,500, are shipped via FedEx 2-Day with Direct Signature Confirmation. FedEx provides the most flexibility when requiring a signature, allowing you to make special delivery requests directly through their tracking system. This ensures both security and convenience for the buyer.
